Markert is committed to the job in Rehoboth

By Francis “Bunky” Markert | Jul 17, 2014

I am Francis Markert Jr. and I am running for city commissioner for Rehoboth Beach.

I have been out and about for several weeks talking to voters which I quite enjoy, meeting people I did not know, and hearing their concerns, the majority of whom believe that city is run well. They all have a variety of issues that concern them, which I would characterize as quality of life issues. And let’s face it, we are all very fortunate to live in this lovely city.

There is an expectation, whether you have lived here all your life, plan to retire in the upcoming years, or just bought a place, that the experience will be peaceful, the ocean and trees and vistas will remain as you remember it, and you will live your life as you choose.

What one has to realize is that this does not just happen. There are many people involved, including our elected leaders and representatives, those working for the city and those appointed to boards, commissions, and committees, and many active volunteers who want to preserve what the city has for themselves and for others.

As soon as my wife and I bought a home here 10 years ago, we got involved supporting candidates and issues, and attending meetings. Later, after expressing my interest, I was appointed to the Architectural Review Board Task Force to study its feasibility as a recommendation in the Comprehensive Development Plan.

I was appointed to the Rehoboth Planning Commission in 2009, where I now serve as secretary. I have learned a tremendous amount from this experience, not only from the issues including the Lakes Report and the revision of the city’s tree ordinance, but from the wealth of wisdom, knowledge and intelligence of my colleagues, all of whom have taught me what consensus building truly is.

I believe that my time on the planning commission demonstrates a deep commitment for Rehoboth, with many hours logged and much to show for in benefitting the city. I very much want to take the next step in serving the community as a Rehoboth Beach commissioner.

I want you to know that I have no agenda or business ties other than to do what is equitable, fair, and best for the residents and property owners of Rehoboth. I feel strongly and want to focus my efforts that the city has a responsibility to garner as much citizen input as possible in deciding key issues affecting our future, especially when many owners are not present throughout the year. I

am committed to continuing to implement the CDP which preserves our parks and trees, protects our beach and boardwalk, and keeps the character of our neighborhoods. My planning commission experience makes me the ideal individual to shepherd those recommendations onto the commission. I share your love of Rehoboth Beach. I invite you to contact me, and I ask you to vote for me Saturday, Aug. 9.